CARLSBAD, Calif – The City of Carlsbad Police Department joins the California Office of Traffic Safety to remind community members to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day responsibly.
On St. Patrick’s Day, which occurs on March 17, the Police Department will be enhancing DUI prevention patrol from 6 p.m., until 2 a.m., the following morning. The mission is to prevent and/or stop drivers suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
“If you plan to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day by drinking, also plan to designate a sober driver or use rideshare service to ensure you arrive safely home,” said Traffic Lieutenant Steve Thomas. “Don’t let poor planning and a bad decision end in a DUI arrest or worse yet, a fatal traffic collision.”
In California, seven people were killed, and 116 others were injured in crashes caused by driving under the influence on St. Patrick’s Day in 2019.
Not only does driving under the influence put yourself and others on the road at risk, it also hurts financially; attorneys’ fees, fines, court costs, insurance rate hikes and car repairs can reach $15,000 or more in California.
The Police Department also encourages community members to follow the “see something say something” rule. If a community member sees someone they suspect is driving under the influence, report it by calling 911.
Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
For more information
Officer Kyle Clement, 760 710 9118 or kyle.clement@carlsbadca.gov
